Tag Archives: bile duct

What Are the Symptoms of Cholangiocarcinoma?

Cholangiocarcinoma (bile-duct cancer) is anatomically classified into intra-hepatic, peri-hilar and distal types. Early findings are usually non-specific; symptoms depend on where the tumour grows and how quickly it obstructs bile flow. Painless jaundiceYellow discoloration of skin and sclera plus dark urine and clay-coloured stools is the hallmark of peri-hilar or distal tumours that occlude the main bile ducts . Generalised pruritusDeposition of bile salts in the dermis produces intense, often intractable itching that may precede visible jaundice. Right-upper-quadrant painA dull, non-colicky ache or sense of fullness develops as the mass enlarges or as the gall-bladder and liver capsule become stretched.... Learn more